Vermonters Encouraged to Take Precautions in High Winds

The National Weather Service has issued a Wind Advisory for all of Vermont until 8 p.m. Monday night. Areas of the state could see gusts as high as 50 miles per hour. Some bordering counties in New York State are also under a Tornado Watch.

The Vermont Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security is encouraging Vermonters to prepare for any possible adverse effects from high winds. Individuals are encouraged to stay tuned to local media further weather alerts and to be careful in adverse conditions:

• If you have time, remove anything from your lawn that could cause injury or damage if blown around by high winds.

• Drive cautiously with both hands on the steering wheel in case a wind gust hits your car.

• If you lose power and run a generator, make sure it is always run outside and that exhaust is NOT entering the home. Every home should have a carbon monoxide detector.

• If a tree or tree limb is blown down do not touch it unless you are 100 CERTAIN it is not in contact with power lines. Downed power lines and anything in which it comes into contact can electrocute you. Treat every downed line as if it were live.

• Make sure your family emergency supply kit is stocked with fresh water, batteries, flashlights, and other basic necessities. Every home should have such a kit whether or not a storm is approaching.

Anyone who wishes to receive weather and other information directly to your e-mail, phone, smart phone or other devices can visit Vermont Alert at http://vtalert.gov and sign up for notifications about weather and other hazards.

Media inquiries can be directed to VT DEMHS Public Information Officer Mark Bosma at 800-347-0488.